STUDY OF MANAGEMENT OF PEDIATRIC AGE GROUP PATIENTS WITH SEVERE ANEMIA

Abstract

Background:  Most common type of anemia in developing countries is nutritional anemia. Nutritional anemia can be due to iron deficiency (most common cause), folic acid deficiency, and Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency or may be combination of these. Other types include hemolytic anemia, which can be either congenital or acquired.In India the prevalence is about 51%.

Methods: In our study,of 100 patients admitted to the Paediatrics Department, the entire exclusion and inclusion criterion were studied. All the patients were subjected to a detailed history, physical examination and further investigation and management. All cases were examined in detail according to proforma, investigations, pathological examinations and other special tests were also done.

Results:  Pallor has been observed in 100% of patients. Fever was evident in 62% of patients followed by weakness in 77% of patients, cough in 34 %, diarrhea in 4%, breathlessness in 4% etc.73% patients were treated with oral medication while 9 % required oral injectables while remaining required mixed pattern therapy . We advised nutrition advisory / counseling for all our patients.

Conclusions: In our study, severe anemia was found to be associated with morbidity and other complications. The main principles in management of iron deficiency anemia include investigation and elimination of the cause leading to iron deficiency, replacement of deficiency, improvement of nutrition and education of the patient and family.